Last week, Team Puerto Rico was holding their collective breath as closer Edwin Diaz fell to the ground with an apparent knee injury after their victory over the Dominican Republic.
It was discovered that Diaz had ultimately torn the patellar tendon in his right knee and would need surgery, which will cost him the entire 2023 season.
For the New York Mets and their fans, it was a tough scene.
Ultimately, reality seeped in, and now the Mets are looking at a full season without their All-Star closer and the reigning National League Reliever of the Year.
Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor commented on the injury to Diaz and described the situation in one word.
Lindor on Diaz:”Heartbreaking” https://t.co/UpoaX8sH42
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 21, 2023
The situation is certainly heartbreaking for the Mets and their fans.
This is a team that had a busy offseason and looks prepared to take the next step after reaching the postseason in 2022.
However, that might be a little bit harder for the Mets now that Diaz is out.
To add insult to injury, the Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves are both still imposing teams and will be tough for the Mets to deal with during the 2023 season.
This may put the Mets in the market for a closer or back-end type reliever at the trade deadline.
As of now, they have some solid options in Adam Ottavino and David Robertson who can get them by until then.
But the Mets are going to have to prepare for life without their closer for the upcoming season, and the possibility of needing a reinforcement or two.
NEXT:
Francisco Lindor Shares His Emotional Reaction To Edwin Diaz’s Injury
